Fall is fast approaching as the Chelsea School District moved from September into October. Personally, fall includes some of my favorite things including: apple cider, pumpkin spice “anything”, leaves turning, college football, and the baseball post season.
In school, the month of September feels a little more like spring to us in the world of education. It is a time of renewal and excitement. Our operations and maintenance staffs have done the summer cleaning and our buildings have never looked better. With a long break, everyone is ready for a fresh start with a clean slate. I liken it to opening day of the baseball season. Everyone is full of hope and promise for the year ahead. Like the hopes of making the “playoffs,” our goals and aspirations are high for every individual associated with the Chelsea Schools.
Over the summer, we were able to leverage our bond accounts to renew and upgrade our facilities, purchase several new busses, and provide iPads to every student at Chelsea High School. We want to thank our community for their generosity and support. We are working hard to be good stewards with these funds and prioritize the needs of our students.
On the facilities front, the “new” CHS is no longer so new. It will turn 15 years old this year and it was time to replace carpet and refresh the paint. We are extremely pleased with the outcome and have been able to further enhance the overall learning environment while also highlighting some of the architectural design features of the building.
We will be hosting concerts at CHS on Oct. 21, 28 and Nov. 4. These events are free to the public and a terrific opportunity to hear great music and get a quick look at the High School.
Our high school staff is embarking on a new journey with technology this year. As many are likely aware, we have been providing a rich technology environment for our students for many years. This includes 1-1 laptops at Beach since the early 2000’s and the addition of iPad to North Creek this past year. We will be working toward upgrades and enhancements at Beach and South Meadows in the coming two years. As individual teachers integrate the available technology into their daily instruction, it is impressive and energizing to see the opportunities to individualize and support learning at new levels.
It is also amazing to step back and review that opportunities that children and families have here in Chelsea. One of our many goals as a public education institution is to provide a comprehensive experience for children. This includes the core learning objectives on which we are measured as well as opportunities to participate in a wide range of activities beyond the classroom to enhance social connections, provide leadership, and learn new and different skills.
Research has consistently shown those students who participate and engage in school activities beyond the classroom find higher rates of success within the classroom.
We continue to be enthusiastic about the year ahead and thank all those in the community who will support our students, staff, and school throughout the coming year.
